Israel Folau is already a sporting superstar but he’s going the right way of lifting his reputation to another level – by following the humble lead of Alessandro Del Piero.
Folau marvels at the Italian football legend’s modesty and down-to-earth, friendly nature that has won him extra fans worldwide.
The code-jumping Wallabies fullback has become good friends with Del Piero in Sydney and was delighted to ironically be “welcomed” by the Juventus great to his home town of Turin, where they will play Italy this weekend.
Folau and teammates Ben Mowen, Benn Robinson and Bernard Foley were invited to Del Piero’s own personal art gallery where he spoke to them via Skype, and his brother Stefano presented them with a Sydney FC jersey.
Del Piero’s gallery and exhibition centre, ADPLOG, also highlights integrity in sport and promotes his Save The Dream campaign.
After a career in which he has reached international heights in rugby league and union, and in between play AFL, Folau said Del Piero was a perfect role model for any athlete, and one he wanted to emulate.
“He’s had a clean image throughout his whole career and the key thing is he is a humble person and very down to earth, he’s attracted people through that,” he told AAP.
“It’s very inspiring to other athletes like myself, it’s something you want to aspire to and want to be.
“You can just feel it through the way he speaks. He has very high standards and morals and that’s something you can learn off him.”
Australia are attempting to get their five-match European tour back on track against Italy this weekend following the disappointing 20-13 loss to England.
Folau was again among the Wallabies’ best at Twickenham, but was far from happy with his game, particularly his decision making on when to run or kick from kick returns.
“What I need to do is find a balance,” he said.
“When to do it and when not to do it. It’s something I need to work on.”
On his first trip to Europe, Folau admits he’s still pinching himself about the chance to play in London, Turin, Dublin, Edinburgh and Cardiff.
After growing up in a rough Queensland neighbourhood, the likeable 24-year-old said he’d always be grateful for the opportunities sport had provided him.
“Coming from Logan, which is a tough area for myself and family, trying to stay humble is a key thing,” he said. “It helps me out with my football because when things get tough or hard like they are at the moment it helps.
“I appreciate it and it makes things easier.”
Sunday morning’s Test will be played at the 29,000-seat Stadio Olympico which hosted the 2006 Winter Games.
“It’s a cold city but for sure you will find at the stadium a very warm crowd for your game,” Del Piero told Folau and the Wallabies.
